SSP Revamps AWS Session, Enhancing Warfighting Skills and Mindset for SSGN Sailors

In an effort to enhance procedural efficiency and knowledge sharing, the strategic weapons team at Kings Bay recently hosted a revamped AWS session. This collaborative event sought to leverage real-time feedback from sailors and industry experts. Both uniformed personnel and Navy civilians, led by Clarke and Stephen Buchanan, overhauled the traditional, presentation-heavy format to create a more interactive experience.

Sailors from USS Florida (SSGN 728) and USS Georgia (SSGN 729), representing both Blue and Gold crews, participated actively in the session. These sailors had unprecedented access to technical experts from SSP, allowing for in-depth discussions on challenges and procedural compliance.

Clarke emphasized the importance of understanding operational mechanics: “It is crucial for operators to comprehend the systems they work with,” he stated. Buchanan echoed this sentiment, saying that the new format allows sailors to brief one another on fleet issues, thereby improving collective knowledge and operational efficacy.

The workshop aligns with the broader mission of SSP, which oversees the nation’s sea-based nuclear deterrent. As these submarines approach their final operational cycles, real-time sailor feedback becomes critical for procedural updates and system improvements.

Missile Technician First Class Aaron Akin from USS George (Blue) highlighted the value of peer collaboration: “Knowledge is better shared among peers, leading to faster dissemination of effective practices,” he said. The ongoing deployments of USS Florida and USS Georgia underscore the necessity for such adaptive training sessions amid escalating global tensions.

Lt. Cmdr. Kyle Milden, weapons officer for Submarine Squadron 16, noted the immediate benefits of the session. “The reformat offers instant feedback between users and contractors, thereby expediting the resolution of operational challenges,” he explained. This direct communication enhances the overall quality and reliability of the AWS system.

Milden also stressed the importance of rapid information exchange in critical situations, facilitated by SSP’s dedicated fleet liaison. This streamlined process ensures that technical expertise directly informs operational decisions at sea.

Fire Control Technician Second Class David Bagby, a participant from USS Georgia (Blue), praised the session’s updated format. He highlighted that the real-time information exchange better supports sailors’ need for current operational data.

Overall, the restructured AWS session at Kings Bay represents a significant step toward optimizing fleet readiness and operational excellence. Such initiatives ensure that sailors are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern naval warfare.